Ellen N. (Ellen Newbold) La Motte
The Tuberculosis Nurse: Her Function and Her Qualifications
A Handbook for Practical Workers in the Tuberculosis Campaign
"The Tuberculosis Nurse: Her Function and Her Qualifications" by Ellen N. La Motte is a handbook for practical workers in the tuberculosis campaign written in the early 20th century. This publication addresses the pivotal role of nurses in combating tuberculosis, detailing their responsibilities, required qualifications, and the challenges they face in the field. The subject is particularly relevant in the context of medical and public health advancements during a time when tuberculosis was a significant health crisis. The opening of the book provides a comprehensive introduction to the pressing issue of tuberculosis, highlighting its infectious nature and the complexity of its management within communities, particularly among the economically disadvantaged. La Motte emphasizes the need for targeted intervention, such as nursing visits to infected patients, education, and the promotion of sanitary living conditions to curb the disease's spread. She sets the stage for discussing the importance of well-trained public health nurses who are prepared to navigate the intricacies of patient care, education, and community outreach in their efforts to control and prevent tuberculosis.